Henna art, or Mehndi, is a form of body art worn by women where intricate designs are drawn on their arms and legs.
Traditionally, the dye used and permitted by authorities comes from a flowering plant called Lawsonia inermis, which gives off a reddish-brown tint.
Black henna often contains the chemical p-Phenylenediamine (PPD) – an ingredient found in hair dyes – which gives the reddish-brown of natural henna a black tint.
It can also be the cause of adverse reactions for certain individuals, resulting in painful skin injuries.
After application, there is usually a delayed reaction to symptoms which can include itching, burning, open sores, blisters and scarring.
Dermatologists say once the body’s immune system has triggered an allergic reaction to PPD after having a black henna tattoo, further exposure can be more harmful, even fatal.
Black henna was banned in Abu Dhabi and Dubai in 2009.
esamoglou@thenational.ae
